Lantec is running a test to prove reliability of 4D Weld Watcher system. According to the manufacturer, partially ionized metal vapour is created during laser welding, cutting or soldering. This escapes from the weld pool and emits a broadband light, the so-called process light. The WeldWatcher measures this process light using a photo-electric sensor. By doing so, typical features, such as the beam flux density, spectral components, time or progress are analyzed and used for quality control.

Recently we have investigated the manufacture of diamond cutting discs in our laser welding laboratory. Discs are used mainly in the construction field, allowing clean and quick cuts in a wide range of materials. They are constructed by a serrated disc, with a hardened outer zone, usually with diamond.